Quote Originally Posted by Tony Printezis


Hi there,


Well, the 200mm f/2.8 L is compatible with the 1.4x extender (according to Bryan's review), which would give you an almost 300m f/4. So, why don't you also consider the 400m 5.6 L? Yes, it doesn't have IS which can be a deal breaker... But if you're going to be shooting a lot at 400m, the prime should provide better IQ than the 100-400 or the 300 f4 + extender.



John said he's looking for a wildlife lens, plus a bird or two. The 400 prime is a BIF (bird in flight, for those who don't know) lens. It is often too long, too slow or limited by its 11' close focus. For bird only, it may be the best of the three, but for general wildlife, John would be better off with the 100-400 or 300. The 400 prime does have slightly better IQ than the 300 + 1.4 TC, but the IQ of that combination is still very good. And remember, the 420mm lens that will result WILL have IS. I could even argue that since he isn't shooting birds too much, he doesn't need 400mm. I shoot bird with my 300 and it does just fine.


Well, that's my opinion []


brendan